One of my departments wants a couple conference-room computers. They want small, quiet, and able to play DVDs and possibly Blu-Rays (for future-proofing). The computers will be hooked into HDTVs (don't remember if they're 1080p or 720p units), and I'd prefer to just use HDMI cables for video and sound, to keep things neat. I don't think they have speakers yet, but they may add some at some point. It will only need to be fast enough to play video.

Can someone recommend an OEM computer that can be easily adapted to this use? Failing that, I'd consider a barebones unit that I can spec out myself. Don't worry about which OS an OEM comes with, because we've got a Windows site license.

My first reaction involves maintenance instead of features. If something breaks with it, do you mind taking some heat, or do you want to be able to blame it on Dell/HP? Even if you are able to build it better and cheaper, will the users appreciate it?

One computer would be stuck on the cart with the TV, so it would have to be fairly small, say about the size of a Dell Optiplex 760 SFF[1] or preferably a bit smaller; the other would be put into a cabinet that's got a good bit of room.

I don't mind fixing the computer, but I like having a nice warranty so I can just have Dell, etc. replace a bad part and get it within a couple days. A consumer-grade computer is fine, I don't think we'll need business kit for this.

[1] I considered this model, but we'd have to get a third-party video card for HDMI. Not a deal-breaker, but I do like Dell's warranty service.

It seems to me like a Dell Studio will fit your needs perfectly. An HTPC seems un-necessary for what work it will be doing. Small, lightweight with HDMI and a blu-ray option . . . .exactly what you're looking for. Linkage

I am going to say that OC'ing is out of the question, which makes some choices a bit easier. I'll list some parts, and many of you will be cautious about the mobo choice, but then again - this comp is NOT for enthusiasts, but for general work/performance.

For a grand total of $365. Just for comparison reasons. I know that Dell/HP would offer warranties, but you already have an OS and other software to put on the thing AND you're willing to service the machines - why not build them?

I'd go with the Dell option. There is a reason why some many businesses use dell computers. They're simple, cheap, not that hard to work on, and come with a decent warranty. I would 100% go against building your own in this case, my experience is that you do not want to be on the hook for fixing things should they go wrong.